Roslyn Secures Future of Football with New Combined Program

Roslyn Secures Future of Football with New Combined Program

Dear Roslyn Community, 

For the past several seasons, Roslyn High School has operated a combined junior varsity and varsity football program with Friends Academy. This partnership was instrumental in sustaining football at Roslyn by increasing roster numbers and providing students with the opportunity to compete. Despite these efforts, during the Fall 2025 season we were unable to meet the minimum roster requirement necessary to field a junior varsity team, which ultimately resulted in the folding of the JV program. All participating athletes were therefore placed on the varsity roster.

While competing exclusively at the varsity level offered valuable experience and growth opportunities, it did not provide the most developmentally appropriate or competitive environment for all student-athletes. To better understand future interest, we surveyed current families in grades 8–11. Results showed strong interest in continuing to offer football as a sport; however, participation numbers remain insufficient to field fully independent Roslyn High School junior varsity and varsity teams.

In addition, Friends Academy has notified us that they will no longer continue our football partnership for the Fall 2026 season. Despite this news, we were determined to find a solution that kept our players who wanted to continue to play on the field.

Through proactive outreach and advocacy for our students, we have successfully secured a new home for Roslyn football. For the upcoming season, our athletes will join the Herricks/Wheatley combined program at both the Junior Varsity and Varsity levels. This partnership ensures that Roslyn players will be placed in a program that matches their skill level and readiness, allowing them to compete at the highest standard. Under this new agreement, Herricks High School will serve as the host site for all practices and home contests. The first official day of the season is Monday, August 17, 2026 at Herricks High School.

Importantly, Roslyn High School will remain an active partner in this program. Roslyn Schools will continue to provide equipment, hire and support coaching staff, and advocate for our student-athletes throughout the season. Team placement decisions will be made collaboratively by coaching staff to ensure fairness, safety, and appropriate development for all athletes from all schools.

To support families logistically, Roslyn Schools will provide after-school transportation from Roslyn High School to Herricks High School on regular school days. Parents and guardians will be responsible for picking up athletes at Herricks following practices. On weekends and non-school days, transportation to and from football activities will be the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

We understand that combining programs raises important questions about team identity, playing time, and student experience. Our goal with this partnership is to prioritize safety, meaningful participation, and long-term athlete development, ensuring that Roslyn students have access to a sustainable football program that allows them to compete and represent their school with pride.

For those who choose not to join the Herricks/Wheatley combined program, Roslyn High School will offer an in-school Flag Football Intramural program this Fall!

This intramural program is designed to give our students the chance to compete and play right here on campus among their Roslyn High School peers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to stay active, build school spirit, and enjoy the game in a fun, local environment.

I will share more specific details regarding registration and scheduling prior to the start of the school year.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. 

Sincerely, 

Michael Brostowski, Ed.D.
District Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics

Posted: March 26, 2026